
Omoyele Sowore, activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, explained his decision to decline an invitation to an opposition summit in Ibadan, Oyo State. Sowore stated that Nigerians deserve a credible alternative rather than a recycling of what he described as failed political actors. In a post on X, he dismissed the gathering as lacking substance, arguing that many attendees had contributed to Nigeria鈥檚 challenges. He emphasized that his party, the African Action Congress, would not associate with what he termed a deceptive political arrangement designed to recycle failed political actors. Sowore maintained his focus on building a people-driven movement rooted in accountability and integrity, and criticized major political parties for representing the same political culture. The summit, held at the Oyo State Government House, was chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde. Other attendees included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. Organizers stated the summit aimed to strengthen coordination among opposition parties and chart a common front for future elections.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu visited the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa鈥檃d Abubakar III, at the Seat of the Caliphate. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to promote peace, unity, and national development. Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, expressed appreciation for the visit, highlighting it as a reflection of the strong relationship between the Presidency, the Sultanate, and the people of Sokoto State. Governor Aliyu noted that the meeting emphasized the importance of collaboration between traditional institutions and the government in addressing national challenges and improving the welfare of Nigerians. He commended Oluremi Tinubu for her dedication to improving citizens' lives through the Renewed Hope Initiative, recognizing her humanitarian efforts as a valuable contribution to national development. Governor Aliyu also prayed for the continued good health and wisdom of the Sultan of Sokoto, and wished President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady success in their service to the nation.
Must ReadSenegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has launched a new political party called Kiiraay, meaning "protection" or "shield" in Wolof. This development follows a public disagreement with his former mentor and ex-prime minister, Ousmane Sonko, who leads the Pan-Africanist party Pastef. Both men were previously members of Pastef, which brought Faye to power in 2024. Faye appointed Sonko as prime minister upon becoming president, but their relationship deteriorated, leading to Sonko's dismissal in May. The new Kiiraay party, with the slogan "Republican Patriots," was unveiled at an assembly in Dakar, with President Faye stating it is built on "republic, ethics, transparency, fraternity and work." Supporters expressed hope that the new party would allow Faye to implement his promised changes, including economic transformation, social justice, and a fight against corruption. While Kiiraay's electoral strength is yet to be proven, several Pastef officials and activists have reportedly resigned to join the presidential camp. Faye's communication team announced that the new party plans to hold a congress after the summer rainy season. Faye's presidency is largely attributed to Sonko, who was barred from running in the 2024 presidential election due to a defamation conviction. The two leaders reportedly disagreed on policy issues, including how to address Senegal's substantial public debt. Sonko's allies subsequently appointed him speaker of parliament, and he remains the leader of P
Must ReadIran's oil ministry announced on Saturday that it sold $18 billion worth of oil during the recent war and subsequent ceasefire with the United States. The ministry stated that $11.5 billion in oil was sold during the war and an additional $6.5 billion during the ceasefire, which ended earlier this month. This revenue accounts for over 60 percent of the oil revenues projected in the annual budget amidst the crisis. However, in late June, Iran's parliament speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, had indicated that Iran was unable to export oil due to a US blockade on its ports. The conflict began on February 28 following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to Iranian retaliation against US allies. An April ceasefire largely halted the fighting, but hostilities resumed in early July as both sides contend for control of the Strait of Hormuz.